Man, Sonic 2 Retro Remix is like diving straight back into 1994—but with a few sneaky upgrades. You still get that classic speed rush as Sonic (or Tails, if you’re feeling cooperative), blasting through Green Hill Zone with the same tight controls and chiptune soundtrack that made the original so addictive. But now the colors pop a little brighter, the sprites are crisper, and there’s even a rewind feature if you botch a jump (which, let’s be honest, happens).

First thing you’ll notice? The special stages got a glow-up—they’re still chaotic half-pipe nightmares, but somehow smoother. And yeah, Chemical Plant Zone’s rising water section is just as panic-inducing as ever. If you’ve got a Genesis (or Mega Drive, depending on where you’re from) hooked up, this is the version to play. It’s the same game you remember, just with a fresh coat of polish.